What You Need to Know if Working With a Recruiter

If you're looking for a new job, consider working with a job recruiter. Seeking a job by working with a recruiter is a little different than the process when you are out there job-hunting on your own, however.

The Recruiter Doesn't Work for You

No matter what kind of rapport you have built with a job recruiter or how much she seems to be on your side, you must always remember that the recruiter works for the hiring company, not for you. Don't let yourself get too cozy with your recruiter, no matter how friendly she is, and do not share any confidences you wouldn't also tell your prospective employer. That prospective employer pays the recruiter's salary, and that's who your recruiter is loyal to. She may even have several clients competing with you for the same position. She can be intensely helpful to you in your search, but don't assume your best interests are her top priority.

Your Recruiter Is Not a Career Coach

Because the job recruiter you're working with is tasked with serving her employer, you cannot rely on her as a career coach. Do not expect her to let you know if your interview outfit is inappropriate, if your handshake is weak or if your interview responses are hurting the impression you make. If you feel like you need the services of a coach, your recruiter may be able to suggest one, but do not count on her to do a job she isn't being paid to do.

Your Recruiter Can See Through Your Resume

Your job recruiter sees more resumes in a day than most people do in a career, and she can size yours up in seconds. It's your job to make sure your resume is ready to catch the recruiter's eye. When reviewing a resume, a job recruiter is interested in your current position, very recent experience, relevant training and actual accomplishments. Extra verbiage does not impress a good job recruiter, so keep your resume spare and to the point.

It's Okay to Call Your Recruiter – Sometimes

While a job recruiter is unlikely to call you unless she has a possible match for you, it's acceptable for you to call her. However, don't just call her to ask what she's doing for you. You are not her top priority. When she has a job for you to consider, she's sure to call. Instead, look for legitimate reasons to call her, such as reports on your contacts with potential employers, updates to your resume or credentials, or a request for advice regarding an upcoming interview. Treat her time with respect, and get right to the point in any conversation.

Working with a job recruiter can be a very productive element in your own job search as long as you are fully aware of what you can and cannot expect a job recruiter to do for you. Don't think that just because you're speaking with a recruiter your own search is over. Combine your energies with hers to bring out the best possible outcome.

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